JOURNEYS OF FAITH

hroughout the ages, Catholics have journeyed to sacred places as an expression of their intense personal devotion. In fact, the earliest recorded pilgrimage is from the second century as the faithful made their way to Jerusalem to follow the Via Dolorosa. The great doctors of the Church, the saints, as well as countless numbers of ordinary pilgrims have embraced the tradition of travel as a means of furthering spiritual growth. It was on pilgrimage to Rome that St. Therese of Lisieux asked the Holy Father for permission for admittance into the Carmelite order. It was only after visiting the shrine of Our Lady of Montserrat that St. Ignatius of Loyola renounced his life as a soldier to begin the journey that would lead him to found the Society of Jesus.

SACRED PLACES Explore the most venerated site on earth, the Holy Land, to follow in the footsteps of Christ. Retrace the way of medieval pilgrims to Santiago de Compostela. Uncover the messages, miracles, and engaging history behind the major sites of Marian apparitions such as Fatima, Lourdes, and Knock. The lives of the servants of God come alive with visits to Lisieux, Nevers, and Avila. The possibilities are as limitless as the needs of your group.

In the ancient world, it was said that all roads lead to Rome. Modern pilgrims will comprehend both the literal and figurative truth of this maxim as they uncover the unparalleled history and spirituality of the Eternal City. Rome was a sight of martyrdom for many early Christians, chief among them the first pontiff, St. Peter who was buried upon Vatican Hill where the now famous Basilica was later constructed. Excavations during the 1940's unearthed his relics, which are presently enshrined above the main altar. Not to be missed are the magnificent artistic, cultural and spiritual treasures of St. Peter's, such as Michelangelo's "Pieta" and the Raphael Rooms of the Vatican Museum.

AN EXPERIENCE LIKE NO OTHER For many, the experience has been a profound one that has provided lasting spiritual benefits. Indeed, pilgrimage has often served as a metaphor for this earthly life that all Christians sojourn until reaching their ultimate heavenly goal. Casterbridge's commitment to providing superior customer service and customized itineraries will ensure that your group or parish will have the most meaningful pilgrimage experience possible.

Regardless of your destination, we welcome the opportunity to custom design a tour to meet your most challenging requirements. Our extensive contacts enable us to provide your group with opportunities for fellowship with local parishes and for your priest to celebrate Mass at some of the most significant shrines in Europe. Pastors, religious education coordinators, and youth group leaders will find our tours to be not only an effective tool for catechisis but a pleasant and memorable experience as well.